Life events are common occurrences that humans experience throughout their lifetimes. While we all may not share the same events there are many overlapping experiences that unfold which shapes our future reactions, behaviors and beliefs. Events like completing high school, moving to a new neighborhood, pursuing a job promotion or selecting a major in college are events most folks are familiar with either directly or indirectly. For most people, these events are not seen as threatening since the level of anxiety is situational and temporary. Common symptoms of everyday anxiety range from dread, apprehension, jumpiness, restlessness or anticipating the worse to racing heart rates, sweaty palms, headaches, stomach burps, fatigue or inability to sleep.

Hello Church, while reading the flood of updates on COVID-19, it became readily apparent that our best defense is to be fully aware and informed about the impact of this virus and its potentially serious complications. Learning to incorporate risk-reducing measures into our daily activities will decrease the spread and severity of COVID-19 in our home and community. Preparing, planning & practicing social distancing has become vitally necessary for our “future” health and well-being.

What should you know to protect yourself, your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and loved ones from COVID-19 and other forms of respiratory virus diseases? First step, learn the facts so you can ignore the myths, prevent the spread of misinformation and the virus as well as learn how to adopt healthful ways of managing potential stress and anxiety. As always, verify your information sources. Are these media sites, experts or articles creditable, reputable or evidence-based?